Construction BUSINESS

The Government has given the green light to the Green Public Procurement Strategy and Action Plan, titled “Buying Greener: Green Public Procurement Strategy and Action Plan 2024-2027,” marking a significant step towards promoting green and circular procurement practices across the public sector.

Recognised as a crucial policy tool for achieving environmental goals, Green Public Procurement (GPP) leverages the substantial purchasing power of the public sector to drive the creation and provision of more resource-efficient and environmentally friendly goods, services, and works within the marketplace.

The adoption of the Green Public Procurement Strategy and Action Plan underscores the public sector’s responsibility to advance green procurement practices in line with Ireland’s environmental and sustainable development objectives. It ensures that goods, services, and works procured on behalf of citizens minimise adverse effects on the environment and society while delivering both short-term and long-term value for money.

Replacing the outdated national Green Public Procurement policy ‘Green Tenders,’ the new strategy aligns with key Government policies, including the Circular Economy Strategy, Climate Action Plan, and Waste Action Plan for a Circular Economy, as well as commitments outlined in the Programme for Government – ‘Our Shared Future.’

The strategy reflects the evolving landscape of climate, energy, sustainability, and procurement policies, aiming to significantly enhance Green Public Procurement implementation across the public sector.

Minister of State with special responsibility for Public Procurement, eGovernment, Communications, and the Circular Economy, Ossian Smyth, emphasized the Government’s commitment to realising the Circular Economy and fostering a more sustainable model of production and consumption through initiatives like Green Public Procurement.

Key focus areas of the strategy include advancing Green Public Procurement implementation, monitoring and reporting, training and awareness, and the development of national guidance and criteria. Additionally, the strategy outlines plans for market engagement, research and innovation, and collaboration with EU and international initiatives on Green Public Procurement, with specific sectoral targets identified.

The approval of the Green Public Procurement Strategy and Action Plan signals Ireland’s dedication to integrating sustainability principles into public procurement practices, contributing to broader efforts towards environmental stewardship and the transition to a circular economy.